" The concept is based on decaying architecture and the beauty created through the unrestrained process of decay but also, the sense of loss this process evokes. I was particularly interested in the loss of function seen in architecture once decay has taken hold as I believe this resonates with societal fear of the inevitability of having no use. Alongside this, I also explored the idea of clothing as protection which is the fundamental function of architecture. To realise this concept, I investigated cracked/ peeling paint and rust, both of which are outcomes of decay, and used scrunched paper to represent an artificial form of decay."

Here is the image Sam used as the repeat print on her garment, which is a study of rust. The unconventional plaid pattern is then repeated many times and hand stitched together resembling traditional fine tailoring. An interesting contrast to the eroded surface texture.

I love the use of complementary colours in her design and the meticulous edging detail which made me think of traditional Inuit skin clothing. The silhouette reminds me of both samurai dress and elegant Victorian costume.

Tuesday, 24 June 2014

From the Coolest Corner: Nordic Jewellery, has been travelling around a number of countries since 2013. Oslo,Copenhagen,Helsinki,Tallinn and now it has reached Gothenburg where it will run from the 3rd June to the 21st September...before it finishes in Munich for March 2015.

My friend Paula Lindblom is one of the artists featured in the exhibition. There are 61 artists in total in the show, from Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Estonia.

Here are some of my favourite pieces she has made in recent years.The white hourse and polar bear are my favourites!

Monday, 23 June 2014

These gifts arrived in the post at the weekend from my dear friend Paula Lindblom, a fellow jeweller from Gothenburg, Sweden. A beautiful painting and note, some cheery little Dala horses to decorate the home and a Moomin's note book, which I shall put away for my summer trip. Thank you paula!

As lovely as it was to travel to Lincolnshire at the weekend, my usual Midsummer weekend normally involves spending a bit of time in my garden, enjoying the extra light and welcoming in the summer. So on Sunday, it was great to get back to Kent, see my chooks and spend time with my beau who had been driving me about all weekend. I took some photos of the beautiful flowers (generally avoided doing any housework)and cooked up a speedy Italian feast, spinach tagliatelle and bruschetta, yum!